The start of a new year often brings resolutions – some ambitious, others short-lived. But as behavioral medicine teaches us, lasting change comes from small, consistent steps rather than grand declarations. So, whether your resolution is to apply for a grant, exercise more, or practice mindfulness, remember: progress is a journey, not a leap.
As we step into the fresh beginnings of a new year, I am delighted to connect with you for the first time as the Newsletter Editor, taking over this role from Susanne Fischer until the next election. I am very honored and grateful and would like to thank the Board for trusting me with this important task and to Susanne for leaving the Newsletter in such great shape. I am deeply committed to continuing the tradition of sharing meaningful insights and updates from our vibrant global community.
In this issue of the Newsletter, our President, Kerry Sherman, has summarized all the achievements of the ISBM in 2024, the exciting 30-year anniversary of our International Journal of Behavioral Medicine (IJBM), and the upcoming events in 2025. Related to this, I highly recommend reading the Letter of the new Editor-in-Chief of IJBM, Konstadina Griva, including her vision for IJBM. Moreover, please check out the update on our society’s finances by Sherri Sheinfeld Gorin. You will find another exciting update from Allison Marziliano, Chair of INSPIRE, the early career and student network for the ISBM, and Chris Kilby, Chair of the Education and Training Committee. Both have set up a stirring webinar program for 2025!
Additionally, Kerry Sherman conducted a fascinating interview for the section Meet the Member Society. You can read the full interview with Susan Tan (President) and Rayner Kay Jin Tan (Treasurer) from the Society of Behavioural Medicine, Singapore, and learn more about this flourishing member society or watch the interview on video here.
Moreover, I am extremely happy that I was able to interview Winnie Mak for the Luminaries in behavioral medicine section. She is a distinguished expert focusing on stigma, diversity, and digital mental health and will deliver a Master Lecture at the upcoming International Conference of Behavioral Medicine (ICBM) in August 2025 in Vienna, Austria.
Last but not least, this issue’s section A behavioral medicine view on… focuses on the crucial topic: social connectedness and engagement. In a world increasingly shaped by individual and collective challenges, understanding the behavioural dynamics of social connection and community is more vital than ever. I am delighted that so many of our members all around the world reached out and provided their insights and reflections on this topic.
Finally, please make sure to stay up to date regarding the ICBM 2025 and visit the conference homepage for updates! If this is not already in your calendar – mark August, 6-9, this year and book a trip to wonderful Vienna to join the inspiring Congress focused on “Advancing Global Health Equity through Science, Education, and Advocacy”.
I am already looking forward to meeting many of you there!
